'Vandse module will be replicated in state'

Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Minister Krishna Byregowda said that self-sustainability in liquid and solid waste management is essential for all gram panchayats.

Speaking to reporters after visiting Vandse Gram Panchayat module for Liquid and Solid Resource Management (SLRM) unit, the minister appreciated the efforts put in to ensure that the gram panchayat is a model for all other gram panchayats in terms of SLRM programme.

He said that there is a need for a practical approach rather than a conceptual approach to make it a reality. The government will surely support the project and if the need arises it will also support the gram panchayats in terms of funding.

He added that feasibility and viability are essential. He said that 93% of the toilets are constructed in Karnataka. Around four lakh toilets are pending for construction.

The next major focus will be the solid and liquid waste management in the state. He added that the Vandse model can be replicated all over. He stressed that handholding is indeed necessary. The local feasibility and viability are important, he maintained.

Asserting that all these days, it was only the city limits which were taken into consideration for the waste collection. However, the increasing waste in rural areas is also raising alarm and calling for immediate action.

He said the increasing plastic waste and glass materials have enabled pollution in rural areas, which once upon a time was harvested only for natural treasures.

He reiterated that sustainable waste management is the need of the hour. The measure will also enable income generation and employment. Cleanliness is important as well. There are also challenges and experiences ahead, but in a totally different perspective when compared to the urban areas, he said.